Editor's Viewpoint
Welcome to the latest issue of CLH Digital
EDITOR Peter Adams
BUSINESS RATES - THE LOOMING CRISIS
The UK's hospitality sector faces an impending crisis unless swift reforms are made to the outdated business rates system, as recently warned by UKHospitality
With the current system set to impose a staggering £1 billion bill on operators by March 2025, many businesses risk seeing their rates quadruple , with hikes of up to £95,000 for some This looming increase , on top of existing financial pressures, is simply absurd
Since the Covid-19 lockdowns arguably one of the most questionable policy decisions in recent histor y the hospitality sector has been reeling from escalating costs
First, it was energ y price hikes and soaring inflation, both of which have had a devastating impact on consumer footfall As demand falls, costs rise , creating a nearimpossible situation for businesses to stay afloat
The UK’s business rates system is among the most complicated in Europe , with our counterpar ts enjoying far lower duty and hospitality VAT rates
It’s no wonder that UK hospitality groups are calling for reform We’re long past the point where successive governments can continue to place blame on "the other lot" and offer austerity measures and tax rises as the default solution
After 15 years of these policies, the public , and indeed the hospitality sector, have had enough It’s high time we saw leadership that inspires confidence , with policies that stimulate growth and put some much-needed cheer back into the economy
The modest 1 3% sales growth repor ted by Britain's hospitality sector in August 2024, as revealed by the CGA RSM Hospitality Business Tracker, is a testament to the resilience of the sector not the government’s suppor t
If this sector can achieve growth despite the government, imagine what could happen with real, thoughtful, and targeted assistance
Moreover, amidst all this turmoil, we ’ re now seeing nonsensical proposals like the
Caterer, Licensee & Hotelier News Group is published by RBC
idea to ban pints and replace them with two-thirds measures to reduce beer consumption
This suggestion was so out of touch that many operators simply boycotted the research altogether
We need fewer ill-conceived inter ventions from "researchers" and more focus on protecting the beating hear t of our high streets the pubs, restaurants, and hotels that so many depend on for employment and enjoyment
If the government doesn’t act quickly to extend business rates relief beyond March 2025 and commit to a meaningful reform of the business rates system, the sector could face catastrophic closures
Enough is enough show some leadership and put the hospitality industr y on a path to recover y!
I can always be contacted at edit@catererlicensee .com
Once more I would ask you to please follow us on X (Twitter), and encourage as many people you know in the trade to sign up to our digital issue fur ther details can be seen at www.catererlicensee .com
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Hospitality Faces £1bn Business Rates Bombshell
(CONTINUED FROM FRONT COVER)
The government have pledged reforms and said the system ‘disincentivises investment, creates uncer tainty and places an undue burden on our high streets
In its manifesto the par ty pledged to ‘replace the business rates system so we can raise the same revenue but in a fairer way ’
However, sector leaders and businesses are deeply anxious the proposed reforms will take too long, and waves of venues could close before then
A local pub could see an increase of £11,000, a town centre restaurant an additional £30,000, and a seaside hotel could be left with an increase of £40,000 CLIFF EDGE
UKHospitality, is calling for the Chancellor to introduce a new lower, permanent and universal rate for hospitality’s business rates at the Budget on 30 October
The current business rates system unfairly penalises hospitality, with the sector paying three times more than it should do Labour, in its manifesto, committed to replacing the business rates system and level the playing field between the high street and online giants
A lower, permanent and universal rate , or ‘multiplier’, for hospitality would be a critical first step to deliver that change
Kate Nicholls, Chief Executive of UKHospitality, said: “Hospitality businesses are facing a devastating cliff-edge next April, when many will see their bills quadruple
“The scale of this almost billion-pound tax bombshell is just not viable Many will face risk of closure , be forced to let people go to stay afloat or shelve their investment plans
“None of those outcomes are good for the people we employ, the communities we ser ve , or the economic growth the Government wants to deliver
“There has to be a solution that avoids this cliff edge , and a lower, permanent and universal multiplier for hospitality would deliver that Not only would it give cer tainty and stability to businesses, but it would allow the Government to begin delivering on its own manifesto commitment
“The dangers of not acting are stark – whether you ’ re a pub coastal hotel or soft play centre for kids and families
“At the Budget, the Chancellor can choose to act and take the brakes off the sector’s growth by avoiding this cliff-edge I hope she does just that because inaction could be fatal for many businesses ” Operators of all types have warned of the detrimental impact an end to relief without another solution would have on their investment plans, business viability, and the communities they ser ve £95,000 INCREASE
Safari Play Venues is a small family-run business that operates two soft play venues in Milton Keynes and Peterborough Gordon Forster, its owner, said business rates already accounts for up to 10% of their turnover and they would be facing £95,000 in additional rates, if relief ended and there was no solution
Gordon said: “Business rates suppor t has allowed us to keep trading keep employing staff and keep paying taxes – all positively suppor ting the Government finances
“Not addressing business rates could destroy many hospitality and leisure businesses We have Covid loans to pay and we put ever ything on the line to sur vive , including our house
The Government must avoid a business rates cliff edge that will cost jobs, investment and community well-
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being It ll also impact on the mental health of business owners who will suddenly have to find tens of thousands of pounds
QUADRUPLED BILLS
Roxane Marjoram, who co-owns several pubs in and around Suffolk with husband David, said the potential quadrupling of rates bills fills her “with dread”
She said: “A quadrupling of rates bills, if the current relief ends, will fill all small operators like us with dread Even though we ’ re operating in an environment with significantly higher costs post-Covid pubs and restaurants like ours can and will play a strong par t in economic recover y going forward if we ’ re suppor ted with fair rates bills
“A new lower, permanent and universal business rates multiplier for the whole sector, as proposed by UKHospitality, will help give us much-needed cer tainty looking forward ”
DIRE
NEED OF REFORM
Tim Hassell, who runs the Thurlestone Hotel in Devon, would have to find £110,000 if relief ended in April
He said: “In a year when we have seen a drop in demand and extra costs on almost ever ything, we have seen profits drop to break-even point A huge rise in our business rates bill would have a massive impact, par ticularly on our investment plans
“The current business rates system unfairly penalises proper ty-based businesses like ours It’s in dire need of reform ”
CRITICAL JUNCTURE
Michael Kill, CEO of the NTIA and Vice President of the International Nightlife Association, warns: “We are at a critical juncture for the UK’s night-time economy and independent businesses The impact of inflation, rising energ y costs and business rates is crushing operators many of whom are facing the ver y real prospect of closure in the coming months Independent venues and cultural businesses are the lifeblood of our cities and communities but without urgent government inter vention we risk losing them forever "
"The Chancellor must act now to extend business rates relief, freeze alcohol duty, suppor t independent cultural businesses and address energ y costs, or we will see a mass exodus of businesses by early 2025 The reality is that the old financial models are gone , and with the current trading conditions, many businesses are struggling to adapt We can’t afford to wait for long-term reform while businesses disappear we need action now to stabilise the sector and protect the future of our industr y ”
The NTIA is urgently requesting an extension of the business rates relief scheme beyond 31st March 2025 to help stabilise businesses amid rising costs It proposes a phased reduction in rates after the extension allowing businesses to adjust gradually while managing increasing operational expenses including the full impact of the NLW
COMMUNITY HUBS
Sacha Lord, Chair of the NTIA and Greater Manchester Night-Time Economy Advisor, reinforces this urgency: "The past few months have highlighted just how vital the hospitality and nightlife industries are not only to the UK economy but to the cultural fabric of the nation This sector brings people together fosters community, suppor ts and encourages investment in local areas, and provides jobs to all ages and in both rural and urban areas "
"Pubs and bars become community hubs after an England match, grassroots music venues nur ture bands that can bring an entire nation to a standstill, and independent restaurants earn the countr y global acclaim The UK has long been a trailblazer in nightlife innovation London, Manchester, Edinburgh and other cities have ser ved as blueprints and influenced policies in city planning worldwide for decades but we are now in danger of being overlooked on this global stage "
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Top Tips For Managing Tips Under New Legislation
With just two weeks to go until the Employment (Allocation of Tips) Act 2023 takes effect across England, Scotland and Wales, it’s impor tant for employers to prepare now
Paul Holcroft, Managing Director at Croner, says, “From 1 October it will be illegal for employers to withhold tips from workers Under the new law businesses will have to have set processes in place to record and distribute tips amongst employees or risk finding themselves in Employment Tribunal
“This new obligation will require employers to consider what would be a fair allocation and in doing so have regard to the Code of Practice which sets out a list of factors for consideration They would then need to consult with workers about it and seek broad agreement However, in the runup to the election, the new government stated that they would strengthen the law in this area to ensure that hospitality workers receive their tips in full and give workers the right to decide how tips are allocated, rather than the employer
“We will have to wait to see whether they act on this pledge and whether the law in this area changes again in the future
“The first step for employers is to consider whether they are impacted by the new tips law They then need to look at what fair allocation is for their business, in line with the factors set out in the Code of Practice , setting up their tronc system accordingly
“Here are my top tips for managing tips once the new law comes into effect:
INVOLVE EMPLOYEES IN THE PROCESS
Not only is it good practice to include your team in the decision-making process regarding tips and gratu-
ALLOCATE A TRONCMASTER
This should be one of the
Assigning
A
CREATE A TRONC POLICY
Creating
based or performance based reward systems, to a tiered system dependent on
of
and/or seniority Set out your system clearly in the policy to ensure fairness or all employees, including those in temporar y or agency roles
It is good practice to include a dispute resolution system in this policy setting out how staff should raise a dispute , and the process that will be followed ”
Do You Have What It Takes To Become A Champion Welsh Chef?
UK Eating Out Market To Benefit From Falling Inflation And Stabilising Economy
‘Relief’ For Hospitality Businesses As Rail Dispute
Ends
“With
Recruitment Expert Issues Alert Ahead
Of Law Changes To Hospitality Industry
Popular Licensee Celebrates 50th Anniversary Milestone At Shiremoor Pub
TGI Fridays Falls Into Administration
With 87 Sites And 3,000 Jobs At Risk
New Welsh Tax Laws Are A Blueprint To Fixing Business Rates
The
business rates This includes:
• Enabling changes to the calculation of payments for different categories of ratepayers
• More flexibility to make changes to reliefs and exemptions
UKHospitality is urging the Welsh Government to use these new powers to immediately introduce a lower, permanent and universal multiplier for Welsh businesses
The new laws also provide a framework of how the UK Government in Westminster can implement similar measures to introduce a lower multiplier for hospitality businesses in England in a cost neutral way
David Chapman Executive Director of UKHospitality Cymru said: “This is a pioneering move from the Welsh Government and clearly demonstrates that they have been listening to our concerns about the broken business
‘St Giles Hospitality Academy ’ Launches to Help Those in Need into The Hospitality Sector
Grey Summer Ends with 1.3% Growth for Hospitality Groups in August
New General At The Royal Hotel, Deal Swaps The City For The Coast
Despite
New Study Reveals Where in the UK Has The Priciest and Cheapest Hotel Room Space
But Birmingham is equally as attractive to businesses, raking in the third highest level of GDP across the UK at £85 192 (billions) in 2022, according to data from the Office of National Statistic (ONS) The city is also known as Europe’s youngest city, with 40 percent of its population under 25 years of age , offering businesses a young and robust workforce In second place as the worst value city is Edinburgh, averaging £1 05 per sq ft Despite Edinburgh hotels offering the biggest hotel rooms, 299 36 sq ft on average , it still found itself taking third place for offering the least value hotel rooms, with rooms costing £314 80 on average Edinburgh, a popular tourist hub, is renowned for its historic cobbled streets, being home to Edinburgh castle and for hosting the hugely successful Edinburgh Festival Fringe The ONS data also reveals that Edinburgh ranks among the top 10-GDP
is not widely considered a top business destination in the UK With a three-and-a-halfhour train ride from London, business travellers are less likely to enjoy these spacious hotel rooms
York came second to Plymouth, offering hotel rooms at a rate of £0 32 per sq ft , almost double the price
York welcomes 8 9 million visitors each year who can expect rooms to be , on average , 489 44 sq ft and cost £157 80 per room As one of the UK’s oldest cities, York is known for its beautiful historic architecture steeped in Viking and Roman roots
Birmingham, known as the City of a Thousand Trades and the UK s second-largest city, takes the top spot as the city with the worst value hotel rooms, charging an average rate of £1 14 per sq ft when comparing price against room size The most expensive hotel rooms in Birmingham cost £549 per night at 269 sq ft
In 2022, Birmingham attracted a record-breaking 45 4 million visitors, meaning hoteliers can capitalise on the city's popularity by charging premium rates for a comfor table stay in this vibrant city This could be due to Birmingham’s brilliant diversity and its reputation as a top tourist and foodie destination boasting the most Michelin-starred restaurants outside London
Liverpool, which saw an 875 percent surge in search interest due to Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour, ranks third among cities cheapest hotel rooms when comparing price versus size With an average price of only £99 40 per night its room sizes are generous (245 48 sq Ft ) when compared to the average size of the more expensive Birmingham hotels (251 36 sq ft ) Hull (42p per sq ft ) and Newcastle upon Tyne (45p) complete the top five cities to stay in with the roomiest hotel rooms with the lowest price tags
Splendid Hospitality Group Helps the Homeless
in York with a Hot Meal
New Packaging Rules Risk ‘Double Penalty ’ For Hospitality
Long Term Reforms Without Support Will Decimate The Sector In Early 2025 NTIA Says
The Night Time Industries Association (NTIA) has submitted a letter of urgent appeal to the Chancellor, outlining a series of critical measures designed to suppor t the UK’s night-time economy and broader business landscape With inflation energ y costs and business rates putting immense strain on businesses par ticularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and independent operators the NTIA is calling for immediate action to prevent widespread closures and fur ther damage to this vital sector
Michael Kill, CEO of the NTIA and Vice President of the International Nightlife Association, warns: “We are at a critical juncture for the UK’s night-time economy and independent businesses The impact of inflation, rising energ y costs and business rates is crushing operators many of whom are facing the ver y real prospect of closure in the coming months Independent venues and cultural businesses are the lifeblood of our cities and communities, but without urgent government inter vention, we risk losing them forever ”
The Chancellor must act now to extend business rates relief, freeze alcohol duty, suppor t independent cultural businesses and address energ y costs, or we will see a mass exodus of businesses by early 2025 The reality is that the old financial models are gone , and with the current trading conditions, many businesses are struggling to adapt We can’t afford to wait for long-term reform while businesses disappear we need action now to stabilise the sector and protect the future of our industr y ”
The night-time economy is not just an enter tainment sector ; it is a key pillar of the UK’s economy, social well-being, and cultural identity From independent music venues and restaurants to pubs and nightclubs, these businesses provide jobs for millions and act as crucial hubs for communities However, NTIA data shows that nearly half of night-time businesses now repor t that their operating models are unsustainable Rising operational costs, reduced consumer spending, and diminished govern-
ment suppor t are pushing these businesses to the edge
Sacha Lord, Chair of the NTIA and Greater Manchester Night-Time Economy Advisor, reinforces this urgency: “The past few months have highlighted just how vital the hospitality and nightlife industries are , not only to the UK economy but to the cultural fabric of the nation This sector brings people together, fosters community, suppor ts and encourages investment in local areas, and provides jobs to all ages and in both rural and urban areas ”
Pubs and bars become community hubs after an England match, grassroots music venues nur ture bands that can bring an entire nation to a standstill, and independent restaurants earn the countr y global acclaim
The UK has long been a trailblazer in nightlife innovation London, Manchester, Edinburgh and other cities have ser ved as blueprints and influenced policies in city planning worldwide for decades but we are now in danger of being overlooked on this global stage ”
NTIA is calling on the Chancellor and the government to take the following critical actions:
EXTENSION OF BUSINESS RATES RELIEF
The NTIA is urgently requesting an extension of the business rates relief scheme beyond 31st March 2025 to help stabilise businesses amid rising costs It proposes a phased reduction in rates after the extension, allowing businesses to adjust gradually while managing increasing operational expenses, including the full impact of the NLW
SUPPORT FOR SMES AND CULTURAL
BUSINESSES
A key issue for the NTIA is the impact on non-bricks-and-mor tar businesses, especially in the cultural and creative sectors With 70% of the night-time economy being independently owned, the NTIA has called on the Chancellor for a shor t-term VAT reduction The decline in independent venues and cultural events threatens innovators, fuels gentrification, and alters UK high streets
FREEZE ON ALCOHOL DUTY TO PROTECT THE HOSPITALITY SECTOR
The NTIA urges the Chancellor to freeze on alcohol duty to ease the financial strain on the sector Inflation is reducing consumer spending and raising costs, with over 50% of consumers highlighting that the price
of drinks being a key reason not to go out as frequently any shift or potential increase in pricing will threaten business viability Stabilising alcohol duty will help prevent price hikes maintain customer footfall and suppor t venue sur vival
ENERGY COST CRISIS: AN IMMEDIATE AND LONG-TERM THREAT
The NTIA has raised urgent concerns about rising energ y prices, set to increase again in October The energ y regulator warns that high prices are the new normal Many businesses, especially in the night-time economy, had hoped for economic change , but with rising costs, they must now adapt to a new trading landscape
Businesses are struggling to cope with rising costs, the smoking ban, and changes to employment rights Without immediate relief, many may fail, especially during slow trading periods The NTIA warns that without urgent action on energ y costs and sector stability, many operators might not sur vive beyond the golden quar ter of 2024 risking mass closures in early 2025
LONG-TERM REFORM IS VITAL—BUT TIME IS RUNNING OUT
While the NTIA acknowledges the impor tance of long-term reforms to business rates, VAT and the planning system, it warns that the slow pace of reform will not come quickly enough for many businesses
Over the past four years, more than 23,000 businesses in the nighttime economy have closed, with 6,000 shuttering their doors in the past year alone Independent SMEs, which have borne the brunt of these closures, are contracting at an alarming rate , down 13% compared to a 3% reduction among larger, corporate-managed entities
Without swift and targeted suppor t, the night-time economy one of the UK’s most innovative and globally recognised sectors will continue to deteriorate These businesses not only create jobs and drive local economies but also play a pivotal role in maintaining the UK’s cultural leadership on the world stage
We urge the Chancellor to act now and take the necessar y steps in the Autumn Budget to safeguard the future of the night-time economy The window for action is closing fast, and without these measures, we will lose a vital par t of our communities, our culture , and our economy
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Gen X-plore: Three Quarters of Over 50s Seek Career Change to Facilitate Travel Plans
career and returning to work, found that almost three quar ters (73%) are considering changing their working patterns to allow them to fulfil their dreams to travel
The research comes as Hilton announces plans to fill almost 400 job vacancies across the UK, with a view to helping those over 50 who are seeking employment to get back into work Spanning hotels across the countr y, jobs are available in depar tments including food and beverage , front office , housekeeping, culinar y, engineering and events
More than a third (34%) of over 50s cited burnout from their current office-based role as a key driver for looking for a change of role resulting in a desire to challenge themselves in a new environment (75%) and move away from desk jobs in search of something more active (44%) For many, seeing their children fly the nest has created more space to pursue a new path More than a quar ter (26%) of those who have children are looking to increase their working hours or change career paths now that their kids have left home
SOCIABLE, FLEXIBLE ROLES ARE KEY
Hospitality and travel (33%) emerged as the most popular industr y for over 50s open to a change of career, with flexible working hours, which can allow greater freedom to travel, highlighted as one of the key benefits (45%) Other advantages cited include the customer-facing nature of roles (42%), working with others of different ages (39%) and oppor tunities to take on a more active , less sedentar y role (35%)
The social nature of the industr y was also noted as one of the main benefits for almost a third of people (30%), with almost one in five (19%) over 50s looking for oppor tunities to work in a more sociable environment
Steve Cassidy, senior vice president and managing director, UK&I, Hilton said: “With most working lives stretching through several decades, people are increasingly exploring a second career later in life
This growing trend is leading to an upsurge in demand for roles that offer something wholly different – and hospitality has a role to suit ever y path – whether that’s more flexibility to travel, a more active working life away from a traditional desk job, or a pathway back into work after a period of looking after family members ”
INTERGENERATIONAL LEARNING
As workforces are becoming increasingly diverse , Hilton’s research also investigated how different generations work together
Three in five (60%) over 50s said they can learn from working with those younger than themselves while more than a quar ter (26%) specifically cited wanting to spend more time with Gen Z as a reason for look-
ing to change career When asked about social motivators for work almost two thirds (64%) of over 50s want to work with people from different backgrounds More than a quar ter (28%) said they specifically wanted to learn from Gen Z coworkers
This works both ways More than three quar ters (77%) of Gen Z respondents said they can learn from older colleagues, with leadership (44%) and problem solving (40%) communication (39%) and organisational skills (39%) being areas most cited where over 50s excel
To capitalise on growing interest in hospitality as a career choice , Hilton is hosting an event at The Waldorf Hilton, London on 30 September Attendees will have the oppor tunity to meet people from more than 15 hotels at the event, with on-the-spot inter view oppor tunities available and a series of talks exploring topics including intergenerational working and apprenticeships, aimed at those interested in a career change or return to work later in life
CASE STUDY
Marlene , 56, joined Hilton in 2022, having taken early retirement from the civil ser vice Looking after Human Resources for four hotels just nor th of London she has a love of travel and enjoys the flexibility of working par t-time so she can spend her weekends exploring new par ts of the UK Marlene regularly enjoys the perks of Hilton’s team member discount travel programme , Go Hilton, and has an ambition to visit as many of Hilton’s
Laine Founder, Gavin George, To Become Punch Pubs & Co Non-Executive Director
Live Entertainment Can Enhance
The New Generation of Travelers, How Hotels Can Become More Appealing to the Younger Generation
By Branigan Mulcahy, Co-Founder and COO of Virdee (https://virdee io/)
Technolog y has become an ever yday par t of our lives Simple daily tasks such as ordering a meal to more extensive tasks that require several steps to completion- they are all now within a few taps of our fingertips on our smar tphone Ever y industr y has seen an increase in use of technolog y to streamline processes and better utilize resources The hotel industr y is adapting and adopting these technological advances and those proper ties that embrace the evolution of technolog y are experiencing higher occupancy rates, increased customer loyalty, and customer satisfaction More specifically, hotels that do not evolve to meet the needs of the current hotel consumer are at risk of succumbing to the competition The new generation of travelers relies heavily on technolog y to plan and execute their trips and they are expecting hotels to embrace technolog y as well Here are some ways to that a proper ty can utilize technolog y to attract more guests and keep those guests coming back: ACCESSIBLE WI-FI
A key tactic that hotels can offer is free Wi-Fi throughout the entire venue Surprisingly, some venues still charge for Wi-Fi in guest rooms while Wi-Fi access is free throughout other areas of the hotel such as the lobby, poolside , and when enjoying a meal at the hotel’s restaurant With 75% of traveling Millennials publishing social media content at least once a day, providing full Wi-Fi access throughout the entire hotel can enable more social media exposure and brand awareness for hotels that utilize this tactic And it is just a nice thing to do for the guests while they stay at a proper ty
COMPATIBLE TECHNOLOGY
Hotels can also capitalize on compatible technolog y like Smar t TVs as most people carr y their own technological devices with them, and they expect to be able to sign onto their Netflix account or something similar during their stay Offering Bluetooth wireless sound systems is also a great idea for hotels to capitalize on allowing guests to stream their playlists during their stay and enhance their experience INCREASED EFFICIENCY
Incorporating smar tphone applications that provide room ser vice and check-in/out options clearly boost the customer experience Automated ser vices such as check-in/out kiosks and vending machines save time for
both guests and staff In automating routine tasks, hotels can operate more efficiently and provide elevated guest experiences and customer utility For example , the Hyatt Union Square in New York offers three different options to check in: at the front desk, using a check-in kiosk, or via an iPad with staff This approach allows the customer to select which option best suits them and ultimately increases customer satisfaction
PERSONALIZED EXPERIENCE
Technolog y allows hotels to provide personalized experiences by analyzing customer data regarding room selections and amenities Ar tificial intelligence (AI) assists hotels in analyzing customer behavior in real time to deliver specific recommendations derived from the customer’s spending habits
COMMUNICATION
Chatbots and vir tual assistants have emerged as another convenient way to uplevel the 24/7 customer ser vice while reducing costs by reducing in-room ser vice time Hotels can contact their guests via SMS social media, and in-app messaging This feature creates ease of communication between par ties leading to more memorable and seamless experiences
HEALTH AND SAFETY
Post-pandemic has seen health and safety measures be a welcome addition to the hotel experience
Contactless check-in and sanitizing stations can help guests feel at ease In addition, technologies such as biometric security, IoT-controlled smar t locks, and safety sur veillance systems contribute to providing a safe and comfor table guest experience
COMMUNAL AREAS WITH TECH
On the other hand, there are people who find the experience of being in a common area that allows them to relax, socialize , and work with other people nearby, enjoyable Offering robust Wi-Fi and charging stations for devices is an expectation for these areas
Today, some proper ties are investing in these common areas to provide cozy, stripped-back lobbies that offer plug-ins for personal devices, fast Wi-Fi, even something called “The Guestbook”, allowing guests to post images to Instagram in real-time
ADAPT AND ADOPT
To ensure customer satisfaction, hotels must adapt and adopt emerging technologies to provide the highest customer experience and ensure that those customers return In the past, guests relied on their favorite coffee shops and restaurants to escape from their hotel rooms and ensure that all their needs were met But now, guests expect a more personalized experience; ever ything they need in one venue They want their room and hotel proper ty to be a place that they don’t need to leave They want easier access to the things that make their stay relaxed and memorable By making some small investments and changes at the proper ty, which includes incorporating higher levels of technolog y, guests can enjoy a
Commonwealth Games Can Benefit Glasgow Hospitality
ABDA Design Delivers Stand Out Cocktail Bar Experience for Twelve Ashby
ABDA Design, a leading design consultancy specialising in the hospitality sector, has unveiled its latest project, Twelve Ashby, a sophisticated fine dining cocktail bar in Leicestershire The design exper ts at ABDA were tasked by Kang Leisure to create a unique and immersive space that would stand out from other venues in the local area
A vintage and eclectic theme was at the hear t of ABDA’s design concept, together with the desire to create an exclusive venue that would captivate guests The design team meticulously crafted the space carefully considering the transition from day to evening and creating a dynamic ambience
With a fine dining menu and a creative cocktail list, the venue ’ s owners were keen that the surrounding atmosphere matched the experiential nature of the food & drink offer ABDA’s design team sought to address this with eye-catching features including large bespoke globe pendants and the layering of reed dish light fittings for a striking look and an impressive backdrop for guests’ photos Another key focal point of the space is the specially designed corner wrap-around bar, featuring gleaming brass inlays and sculpted lighting to give an elevated cocktail experience The luxurious bar area is complemented by a mix of contrasting materials including tiled floors distressed timber herringbone and exotic foliage wallpapers The result is a space that exudes both opulence and individuality
“Twelve Ashby is a testament to our ability to create truly exceptional hospitality environments,” said Michael Hall, senior designer at ABDA Design “Our goal was to design a space that would not only impress but also inspire repeat visits,
Just 28% Of Hospitality Companies Compliant
With New Employment (Allocation Of Tips) Act
A new repor t has revealed how the government’s Employment (Allocation of Tips) Act 2023, set to come into effect October 1st, will push hospitality operators to breaking point, with 83% of respondents expecting to incur costs of at least £12,000 a year to comply the equivalent of 118 690 UK operators Nearly one in five (18%) claim costs could increase by £60,000 to £360,000 a year under the new regulations
Despite hospitality closures slowing, these findings come at a worr ying time for the industr y, with more than four hospitality businesses closing in Britain ever y day so far in 2024, according to data from CGA by NIQ and AlixPar tners Recent repor ts of a potential smoking ban at hospitality venues also promises to pile more pressure on to businesses which are already struggling
The Employment (Allocation of Tips) Act 2023 will require hospitality businesses to distribute 100% of customer tips and ser vice charges to staff, with no exceptions other than standard-rate tax deductions The changes also make it mandator y for all hospitality businesses to have a written policy accessible to staff on how tips are dealt with at their place of work
The repor t, ‘Tipping Point: How new legislation will impact hospitality’, commissioned by technolog y company three rocks, sur veyed 1,000 hospitality businesses, 1,000 customers and 500 staff in the UK to gain their insight into the new government legislation and to understand feelings towards tipping The study included UK hospitality businesses of all sizes from independent operators to national restaurant pub and bar chains
The findings revealed that only a mere 28% of operators are compliant with the Act distributing tips among all staff without any deductions
The majority two thirds (63%) of businesses currently take a percentage of tips from employees 29% of those use these tips to cover costs such as processing fees, costs the business will now have to cover under the new Act, while over a quar ter (28%) take a profitable share of the tips, money they will be unable to claim from October
This means that 63% of businesses will have to make changes to the way they operate to comply with the
new legislation, which is equivalent to more than 90,000 hospitality businesses currently operating in the UK according to latest government figures*
TIPS FOR STAFF –
A BETTER WAY?
Speaking to 500 hospitality staff the three rocks® research uncovered that 42% of hospitality workers in the UK have never been told about how tips are distributed to staff, which equates to 756,000 employees across the UK*, based on the latest government figures When asked whether they were happy with how tips are distributed to staff, more than a third (37%) of staff said they were unsure but felt they should get more tips
The study revealed that there could be a better and fairer alternative tipping process to the Employment (Allocation of Tips) Act 2023 Nearly half (44%) of operators would suppor t the creation of a Tipping Standard Practice , an official tip amount implemented across the board for customers and a standard process for businesses to distribute tips to staff
59% of staff suppor t the concept, with 27% saying it would make financial planning easier and a fur ther fifth saying it would be a fairer system for ever yone An overwhelming 73% of the 1,000 customers polled agreed it was a good idea
SHIFTS IN TIPPING HABITS
The study also delved into tipping behaviour, revealing that nearly three quar ters (74%) of UK hospitality companies either already, or plan to, add a ser vice charge as standard for smaller tasks such as ser ving a pint, preparing a cocktail, checking people in or carr ying luggage Nearly 1 in 3 operators will add a ser vice charge of between 5-10 per cent for such tasks, suggesting that the UK is heading towards
charge , where 20% is the standard gratuity for all types of ser vice
The British public also suppor t the Americanisation of tips, with 73% of customers agreeing that people should tip when buying drinks at a bar and over a third (34%) saying they should
bar staff between 10-20% for making their drinks
Scott Muncaster, founder and Managing Director of three rocks®, said: “The UK hospitality industr y is struggling, and recent government inter vention has done nothing to ease concerns from operators This new legislation, set to come into force in October, will massively increase costs as our research has shown This, coupled with repor ts of an outdoor smoking ban proposed by the new Labour government, is cause for concern, and may push many businesses to breaking point in the final quar ter of this year and beyond ”
Brewer And Pub Operator Wells & Co. Joins
Expanding Zero Carbon Forum Member Roster
Wells & Co , the Bedfordshire based, family-owned brewer y, which operates 200 pubs across England and France , is the latest member to join Zero Carbon Forum, a not-for-profit organisation that suppor ts the brewing and hospitality industr y on their net zero journey
Mark Chapman founder and CEO at Zero Carbon Forum said: “Wells & Co is a fantastic operator that has already shown great progress in taking credible climate action We are excited to work with the team to help implement all the necessar y measures from
first ever Sustainability Manager whilst working towards an MSc in Sustainability at Cranfield University
Ed says: “At Wells & Co we are committed to being a net force for good in the communities and natural
we inhabit Operating a
and
business is at the hear t of ever ything we do We want to give the next generation a business that we are proud of, and one they can grow and enjoy for years to come
“The Zero Carbon Forum can measure our effor ts accurately, benchmark them against the rest of the industr y, and advise us on how to improve sustainability across
Boost Your Team’s Skills: Invest in Essential Safety Training
Bristol Hoteliers Hope Councillors Put The Brakes On Business Parking Levy
Bristol hoteliers hope city councillors put the brakes on plans to introduce a £20 weekly charge for commuters to park in their city centre workplaces
Last week (Sept 12) Bristol City Council s transpor t policy committee approved spending up to £1m to draw up an outline business case for the levy, which would charge businesses in the central area which currently offer free staff parking places
It will be down to the individual companies to decide whether to absorb the costs themselves or pass them on to their employees
But the Bristol Hoteliers Association (BHA) has criticised the plans, saying it is yet another blow to the long-term recover y of their businesses, which have been struggling thanks to a combination of the impact of Brexit, the Covid pandemic and the cost-of-living crisis
It is estimated that around 9,000 employees could be affected by the levy which the council claims could help cut congestion and air pollution in the city centre and could raise up to £10 million per year which would be invested into improving public transpor t
BHA Chair Raphael Herzog said: “This would be yet another challenge for BHA members in the city centre
“The nature of our business means we have staff making ver y early star ts and ver y
when access to alternative forms of getting to and from work is limited
“Earlier this year, we were hit with having to take on the costs of the increased national wage and this feels
like another blow to our businesses, which the city council should be suppor ting
“We’re disappointed that we were not consulted about plans to introduce this workplace parking levy; we found out about it through media repor ts
“We’ve had a difficult summer in terms of occupancy, which I think is down to a combination of the continuing cost-of-living crisis, the unpredictable weather and the fact that more people seem to have gone abroad this year
In addition, the Labour Par ty has already warned the nation to be prepared for a ‘difficult’ budget in October, which will undoubtedly present more challenges for us, and now we learn about this parking levy plan, which is just adding insult to injur y
“The BHA wants the council to reconsider this plan and we are again calling on the council to show some significant suppor t for the city’s hospitality sector, which makes a huge contribution to the local economy but which is continuing to struggle in the current climate
“Instead of looking to impose additional costs to us, why not charge Airbnb premises for licences, for example That would generate some extra income to invest in transpor tation and also be a show of confidence in our businesses
“If it is to be implemented, my understanding is that there would be exceptions for some organisations, and I urge councillors to show their suppor t for our sector by working to ensure hospitality businesses are included among the list of organisations who will not be charged ”
Urban Pubs & Bars Announce The Opening Of The Wren
which translates as: ‘If you seek his monument look around you ’
This year UP&B have already opened several sites including iconic Spitalfields pub The Gun and The Red Setter located in the vibrant Nor thcote Road community between Battersea and Clapham and recently announced the acquisition of 11 locations from the former Antic Pub Company
Urban Pubs & Bars was founded in 2014 by Nick Pring and Malc Heap and has grown to an estate of pubs, bars and restaurants across London, including flagship pubs Nest, Bishopsgate , The Wheatsheaf, Tooting,
Find Out How the Simpler Recycling Legislation Will Affect Your Business
Protect The Nation’s Locals
From Closure Chancellor Urged
Consumer rights group the Campaign for Real Ale (C AMRA) calls on Chancellor to reform unfair Business Rates and slash tax on pints in upcoming Budget
Ahead of the upcoming Budget next month, around 145,000 C AMRA members are being mobilised to call on the new Government to take action to suppor t for pubs, social clubs, brewers, cider makers, and to stand up for consumers rights Joining forces with industr y leaders, the Society of
Redcat Pub Company Appoints Fleet Street
Trade Drinks Expo 2024 Returns to ExCeL London
Bar and pub owners, micro-brewers and international decision makers for the largest beverage brands across the countr y are eagerly awaiting the return of Trade Drinks Expo Known as Europe's leading event dedicated to on-trade and off-trade drinks, this trade show and industr y conference will return to ExCeL London on the 15th & 16th of October
This year promises to be the event’s most dynamic yet The expo is set to be attended by thousands of beverage-ser ving professionals, ready to gather and explore a vast array of delicious drinks groundbreaking ideas deliver y solutions, essential ser vices, and more The Expo is designed to help businesses discover forward-thinking solutions to boost profits, attract guests, and retain clients It s an exceptional oppor tunity to discover emerging trends, cutting-edge products, and network with professionals shaping the future of beverages
Innovative Exhibitors: The show will feature a wide range of exhibitors at the forefront of the industr y, showcasing products and ser vices to give businesses a competitive edge From pre-mixed cocktail brands to electric point-of-sale technolog y, visitors can expect to find ever ything they need to drive profits and improve customer satisfaction
Inspiring Speakers: Attendees can expect to glean insights and inspiration from the brightest minds in the industr y The lineup of speakers will share exper tise on a range of topics including the bar experience non-alcoholic options event promotion and more It’s a great oppor tunity to
learn from the challenges and successes of representatives of the sector’s biggest institutions
Sustainability Trail: With sustainability coming to the forefront of impor tance in the café industr y, we ’ ve curated a dedicated trail of exhibitors at this year ' s show that have best utilised and implemented sustainable strategies within their business
Innovation Awards: Time is set aside
So, mark your calendars for the 15th & 16th of October and secure your FREE ticket today to take advantage of countless oppor tunities to help your drinks business thrive Register now to be inspired, informed, and connected at the Trade Drinks Expo 2024! For more information and to secure your free ticket,
Inflation Holds Steady at 2.2%
Arc Inspirations Unveils “Year Of Transformation” As Revenues Near £50m
to £5 3m Individual site performance illustrated the strength of Arc’s market-leading bar brands, plus the success of recent openings, with average site EBITDA up 22% to more than £550,000 per site It also repor ted conversion to profit (EBITDA) of 22 9%, up from 21 4%
The strong performance from Arc , which is led by co-founder and CEO Mar tin Wolstencroft, follows its recent fund raise of £7m, suppor ted by BGF and HSBC , and means the company is extremely well placed to push ahead with exciting plans to fur ther grow its presence in key UK cities
The company ’ s year-end results were boosted fur ther with the launch of four new sites – BOX Brindleyplace , in Birmingham; Manahatta Newcastle; BOX Nottingham, and Manahatta Sheffield The sites were selected due to their prime city centre locations – a y pillar in the company ’ s growth strateg y – and have been trading well since opening their doors
The performance was bolstered by Arc’s best Christmas sales period yet Over half of the Group’s 21 sites repor ted their best-ever sales weeks during the week commencing 11th December (2023) Like-for-like sales for the four weeks to the end of December 2023 were up 19% compared to December 2022 The individual brands outperformed the previous year, with BOX up 30%, Manahatta up 24% and Banyan ahead 10% This, the Group said, was fur ther testament to the passion, commitment and flair shown by Arc s operational teams
Commenting on the company s performance , Mar tin Wolstencroft, CEO at Arc Inspirations, said: We are extremely proud of what the Group has achieved over the past 12 months in what has been a transformational year As a business, we continue to track ahead of the market, which is extremely positive
“R ent years have not been without challenges for the industr y yet these results indicate t we have weathered the storm and confidence in our brands remains high across ar tners, stakeholders, teams and customers
“These results are a huge credit to ever yone that plays a role in driving Arc Inspirations forward and we ’ re excited for what the coming year will bring as we implement our growth plans fur ther We have already made great headway with this, with the opening of four strong sites this year, all of which are proving to be incredible additions to both these cities and our business ” Central to this strateg y is identifying and securing prime city centre locations where Arc can operate its three differentiated brands – BOX, Manahatta and Banyan – in close proximity The three brands are designed to co-exist, offering something different within each so that they can operate alongside each other within major city centres, without impacting or ‘cannibalising’ trade the current financial year – to March 2025 – the Group plans to open two new tta sites, in Nottingham and Edinburgh, and a BOX in Sheffield in 2024 Following this, the business will also launch a Manahatta in Liverpool in early 2025 and is actively pursuing fur ther site oppor tunities in London Cardiff and Scotland
Wolstencroft added: “As a business we care about our teams and customers and how we can keep delivering an elevated experience in all areas This is what keeps driving us on and as a result, we are seeing some fantastic performances All of our sites are trading ahead of the market, and we are confident this trend will continue as we open new sites in more key locations
Our performance is a great testament to the work our teams have put in striving to deliver a best-inclass customer experience , resulting in our highest ever NPS of 81, and also retaining and motivating our best people , with team turnover the lowest it has ever been It really has been a ver y rewarding year on all fronts, which I am delighted with ”
Nearly HALF of England’s SMEs Don’t Know That Simpler Recycling Will Impact Their Business, According to New Biffa Survey
Nearly half (42%) of SMEs in England don t know that upcoming Simpler Recycling legislation will impact their business, according to a new sur vey from waste management exper ts Biffa SMEs will face extra challenges from the scheme compared to corporate businesses – like finding space for new bins, separating all recycling into material type and training staff – compounded by the risk of a fine if not implemented For many, it will be the first time doing so
That said, 58% of English SMEs do believe Simpler Recycling will affect their business When it comes to wider UK policies, affected SMEs anticipate Extended Producer Responsibility (53%), Digital Waste Tracking (52%) and the existing Plastic Packaging Tax (51%) having the greatest impact
It comes as SMEs repor t sustainability being a greater business priority in 2024 compared to last year – the third highest (36%) following cost efficiency (45%) and revenue growth (39%) When Biffa issued a similar survey in 2023, sustainability was the lowest priority for small businesses
What’s more , four in five (80%) see waste management and recycling as impor tant to sustainability, with three in 10 (29%) saying the two are ‘ ver y impor tant’
They prevalently measure and repor t on the reduction of general waste (67%) in their effor ts to be more sustainable – a significant rise on 39% last year SMEs are also vigilant on the recyclability of products and packaging they purchase or produce (60%) Perceptions from customers or employees also matter, as over half (56%) track this compared to just a fifth (22%) last year
In fact nine in 10 (91%) SMEs have a formal sustainability strateg y either in place planned or in progress
Four in five (82%) also say their business is focused on being par t of Britain’s circular economy – compared to just half (52%) in 2023 – but, crucially, nearly all (98%) say that more suppor t is needed for their business to be sustainable
Financial incentives (42%) are the type of suppor t SMEs need most in order to be sustainable That’s understandable given that – as in 2023 – the cost (45%) of making changes is their biggest barrier to sustainability, followed by increased expenses of products and or ser vices (38%) Monetar y concerns are compounded by a lack of clarity on sustainability metrics (30%)
Hospitality
Two-fifths (42%) of SMEs seek advice on the best options available They also want to find new ways to be sustainable , desiring investment in innovation and technolog y (39%), product life cycle , and circular supply chain analysis (37%)
Commenting on the findings, Maxine Mayhew, Chief Operating Officer – Specialist Ser vices and Collections, Biffa, said:
“Being more sustainable is not always simple or cost-free , but more SME decision makers are prioritising sustainability than ever Our research shows that small and medium sized businesses are capable and motivated to make positive change
“This change and growing commitment to sustainability, through what have been incredibly tough trading conditions for many, has not been driven by government regulation alone SMEs are not currently mandated to have a sustainability strateg y; businesses have taken the initiative to drive change They want to do their par t in tackling climate change because it is important to them, their customers, and their colleagues
“Our sector has a duty to help SMEs by providing clarity and guidance around waste legislation We’re committed to suppor ting businesses through this period of policy change , so their waste management remains compliant and cost-effective
Working together – with the waste industr y and across the supply chain – will be crucial for SMEs going forward to reduce waste and recycle more As will stable legislation, which will give businesses confidence to invest fur ther in sustainability ”
For more information on SME attitudes towards the circular economy, sustainability and recycling, visit: https://www biffa co uk/biffa-insights/Biffa-SME-sustainability-sur vey-repor t or see the adver t on page 6
Action Launches New Step-By-Step Guide To Improve Workforce Wellbeing
balance with wellbeing champions and mental health first-aiders to help create a wellbeing-focused workplace Additionally, it offers best practices for regularly monitoring and communicating wellbeing through employee check-ins, feedback sur veys and open discussions, and encourages teams to suppor t wider wellbeing initiatives like Walk for Wellbeing Now in its fifth year, Walk for Wellbeing is a fun, flexible annual event all about taking simple steps towards raising
funds to suppor t individuals and their families in the hospitality sector who are facing challenging times Eight hosted 20km walks will take place in key cities across the UK on Sunday 13 October in London Oxford Bath/Bristol Cardiff, Birmingham, Liverpool, Manchester and Glasgow Those unable to attend can ‘Walk It Your Way’ anytime between World Mental Health Day on Thursday 10 October and Sunday 27 October at a location and time that suits them best
Switch To A Cooking Oil Service You Can Depend On
Pint Ban Proposals Rejected
Drinks Sales Slide Against Tough
Guest Amenities
Elevating the Guest Experience: The Strategic Importance of Hotel Amenities
In
or the delight of a complimentar y breakfast each amenity contributes to the overall impression of the proper ty For business travellers, cer tain amenities like a well-equipped workspace , fast internet, and access to meeting facilities can be the deciding factor in their choice of accommodation However, in the modern hospitality landscape , guests are not just looking for the basics They expect a cer tain level of luxur y and personalization, and they are acutely aware that if one hotel doesn't meet their standards, there are countless others that might This means that hoteliers need to be strategic about the amenities they offer, ensuring they not only meet but exceed guest expectations
CHOOSING THE RIGHT AMENITIES FOR YOUR HOTEL
letries (shampoos, soaps, facewashes), personal care items (hairbrush, body lotion, shaving cream, razors, shower cap), and conveniences such as coffee kits, bathrobes, slippers, and tissue boxes have become standard across the industr y Failure to provide these can lead to immediate dissatisfaction
Fur thermore as the sector seeks to meet escalating concerns for the environment, hotels and inns are increasingly adopting sustainable practices in their toiletr y offerings Biodegradable packaging refillable containers and cruelty-free products are gaining traction reflecting a commitment to environmental responsibility
Plus, an impor tant trend in the industr y is the suppor t for local communities/businesses with the use of locally sourced or ar tisanal toiletries connecting guests with the culture and individuality of the destination, adding a custom-made touch to the overall guest experience
Special Amenities: Some amenities are highly appreciated but may not need to be provided universally in ever y room A dental pack, for instance , could be available upon request, along with other personal items like combs By making these available through reception rather than placing them in ever y room, hotels not only manage costs but also create oppor tunities for guest interaction, allowing staff to personalize the guest experience Luxur y Amenities: For proper ties aiming to position themselves as luxur y or boutique offerings, the inclusion
Selecting the right amenities for your hotel rooms or proper ty requires a careful balance between enhancing the guest experience and maintaining profitability It’s impor tant to recognize which amenities should be offered as standard, which should be available upon request, and which could be positioned as premium add-ons
Essential Amenities: Hotel toiletries extend fare beyond functional items; they are vital to the overarching guest experience Thoughtfully chosen and high-quality toiletries have the power to elevate a guest’s perception of a hotel, creating a lasting and positive impression, and are the baseline expectations of any hotel stay Items like toi-
Guest Supply - Transforming Stays with World-Class
A collaboration between a Cumbrian hotel and an award-winning natural skincare business has seen explosive sales due to guests’ demand for their bespoke Petrichor toiletries
Petrichor is the name of the ear thy scent produced when rain first falls on dr y soil Derived from the ancient Greek Pétra (rock) and ikh r (ethereal fluid), this became the name for the brand
In line with Sedbergh Soap Company’s ethos, Dor the Pratt, the founder of the business, set about incorporating natural and organic ingredients infused with essential oils grasses and herbs to created Petrichor to the hotel owners ’ brief
James and Nina of The Black Bull: “Petrichor is the essence of a ver y successful collaboration between two independent businesses The bespoke ar tisan-crafted fragrance , inspired by our surroundings, Nina’s rich Japanese heritage is the embodiment of our ethos We are thrilled how well it has been received by our guests”
Dor the added: when I set out to compose Petrichor I knew it would be a challenge The smell appears rarely here in the Yorkshire Dales as there needs to be a warm dr y spell first, and once it star ts raining the scent is gone , so my reference point was rather elusive” “James and Nina are ideal collaborators: ambitious, visionar
Cleaning and Hygiene
The Importance of Cleaning and Hygiene in the UK Hospitality Sector
Five Star Cleaning , Starts With Best In Class Equipment
Guest Supply - Transforming Stays with World-Class Amenities
High End Wine Preservation In Your Business or Home with Expert Wine Storage
Modular Magic: Winterhalter’s MT Dishwasher is Amazingly
to individual requirements
Winterhalter has also developed ‘neutral’ modules that can be positioned between operational zones (prewash, wash, rinse and dr ying) They extend the distance between the zones, meaning the MT can accept extra-large wash
•
• Safety for Staff: A hygienic
reduces the r isk of accidents and injur es , suc h as slips , tr ips , and falls , ensur ing a safer working environment for the staff
Positive Inspections: Regular c leaning ensures that the
Phone: 0800 132 507
Email: info@atlasfm.com Or see the adver t on page 9 One True Concoction (OTC) is more than just a beverage brand; it’s a blend of tradition, family, and a
Products and Services
Collaboration Leads to Guest Success
Petrichor
set about incorporating natural and organic ingredients infused with essential oils grasses and herbs to created Petrichor to the hotel owners brief
James and Nina of The Black Bull: “Petrichor is the essence of a ver y successful collaboration between two independent businesses The bespoke ar tisan-crafted fragrance , inspired by our surroundings, Nina’s rich Japanese heritage is the embodiment of our ethos We are thrilled how well it has been received by our guests” Dor the added: “when I set out to compose Petrichor, I
The Label Group
The
knew it would be a challenge The smell appears rarely here in the Yorkshire Dales as there needs to be a warm dr y spell first, and once it star ts raining the scent is gone , so my reference point was rather elusive” James and Nina are ideal collaborators: ambitious, visionar y, and open-minded
Exceeding Customer Expectations
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Tayto Has ‘Snacking Sorted’
As the largest family-owned, British-based snack company with a stable of well-known British brands, Tayto has ‘Snacking Sor ted’
Bar Snacks offer a brilliant oppor tunity to increase sales through the ‘double whammy’ of generating incremental sales AND boosting dwell time Our unique offering provides hospitality and licensed venues with a snacking ‘ onestop shop’
Here are our top tips on how to maximise sales - and profits - from snacks!
*Stock a wide range of proven, premium snacks that have been developed for the licensed sector Pub consumers look for brands they can trust and it s impor tant to stock proven sellers! Tayto has a range of award-winning snacks to suit ever y pub and cover a large range of ages and dietar y requirements:
• Midland Snac ks Traditional Scratc hings – No 1 brand1 and our best-se ling pubcard – boasting a 2-star Great Taste award, with ts traditional hand cooked recipe that has stood the test of time
• Mr Porky Or ig nal Scratc hings – the No 2 brand1 is the most recogn sed name in scratc hings and also a 2-star Great Taste Award winner
• Mr Porky Cr ispy Str ips - a l ghter bite , akin to cr ispy bacon r inds , for those who want all the taste of a scratc hing but a less hard texture , and another Great Taste award-winner
• REAL Hand Cooked Cr isps – premium, award-winning, food ser vice focussed cr isp brand with 9 strong f avour s (of whic h 7 are Great Taste Award winner s) All recipes are gluten free vegetar ian and with no added MSG REAL has relaunc hed it’s punc hy Ham & Mustard flavour and has par tnered with Colman s , the UK s number one mustard brand2 to br ng you REAL Handcooked Ham & Colman’s Mustard
• Animal Adventures – vegetar ian, gluten-free with no added nasties , is a lightly salted animal-shaped fun snac ks that kids love
KNOW YOUR CUSTOMER
Boost sales by tailoring your range to their tastes Our research shows that younger male consumers prefer the meaty flavours – like Roast Ox, Ham & Colman’s Mustard whereas the more traditional flavours are popular with the 45yrs+ - Salted, Cheese & Onion and Sea Salt & Black Pepper 3 PROMPT SERVICE
The Perfect Snack
We
SEEING IS BELIEVING
Snack
o Pubcards or c lip str ips behind the bar
o A full range of cr isps on
o
Tayto
PREMIUM PROFITS
By
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Fly the Flag for Good Taste
Tyrrells is an ideal choice for customers looking to make trips
to pubs and bars feel like a special occasion With 93 Great Taste Awards across the range , Tyrrells offers a great accompaniment to a glass of wine , offering classic and popular flavours including Mature Cheddar & Chive , Lightly Sea Salted and Sea Salt & Cider Vinegar
Launched this year, our new League of Tyrrellbly Good Taste initiative suppor ts the Out of Home (OOH) channel in driving bagged snacks sales The initiative enables OOH outlets to register their business via a bespoke platform to receive exclusive POS with 200 POS kits available , including a branded wooden display unit, a window sticker marking out the business as a “Tyrrellbly Tasteful Establishment”, a clip strip and more FInd out more –www tyrrellscrisps co uk/league/ See the adver t on the previous page for details
Greenleaf’s Christmas Collection Unveiled
Chefs' Buyers Guide
Northern Ireland - Bringing Character to
Over 100 years ago Nor thern Ireland introduced whiskey to the world and now our distillers and craft brewers are in the midst of a vibrant renaissance Over the last decade our drinks sector has become one of the region’s most dynamic , innovative and expor t-driven industries Our drinks producers are winning awards across the globe , driving buoyant sales at home and abroad and our buzzing visitor centres and tap rooms are enticing tourists into cities, towns and villages across the four corners of our beautiful countr y This resurgence is driven by a compelling blend of long-established distilleries such as Bushmills, the world’s oldest licensed whiskey producer, and a wave of innovative newcomers Bushmills doubled its production in 2023 with the opening of its £37mn Causeway Distiller y, taking sales to over 1 million cases for the first time Also taking strides are newcomers Echlinville Distiller y, a pioneer in field-to-glass
You’re truly Better off with Booker www booker co uk
McWhinney ’s Sausages
McWhinney’s Sausages has been a family run business since 1898 Star ting out in a butcher’s shop many things have changed over the years, but one thing has stayed the same – quality The company emphasises quality above all, using only the best quality cuts of pork to produce their award-winning Irish Pork Sausages Ever ything from the 126-year-old recipe used in the Premium sausage to the newer additions, such as gluten free , used the same high-quality ingredients and get the same care and attention to ensure a consistently excellent result ever y time MD Kevin McWhinney is a fifth-generation butcher who was raised on the premium sausages 6 years ago, he
was diagnosed with coeliac disease and became unable to eat any of the products he produced This led to the creation of the McWhinney s Gluten Free Sausage Applying the McWhinney s quality
ethos, Kevin set out to create a great product in its own right as opposed to a passable alternative In this he succeeded in creating a sausage with a hint of honey-roast ham sweetness which packs a pepper y tingle on the back of the palette
Gluten free offerings are becoming increasingly impor tant as awareness in the industr y grows and kitchens become more equipped to deal with the challenges it poses The McWhinney’s Gluten Free can sit on any menu proudly to delight diner s tastebuds whether coeliac , gluten-reducing or just looking far a tasty sausage
For more information email info@mcwhinneys com
Chefs' Buyers Guide
Please
LittlePod’s RE AL Vanilla Paste
Tiptree Patisserie – Serious About Shortbread
desser
scones and
more
Today, we ’ re proud to be channelling our exper tise into expanding our shor tbread offeringsa categor y that has rapidly become an impor tant par t of our growing product range These butter y melt-in-the-mouth treats are becoming a hallmark of our brand and we re serious about making them nothing less than exceptional With traditional flavours such as All-Butter and Chocolate Chip, to more unusual seasonal flavours like Lavender and Mince Pie , there is something for ever yone to enjoy
retailers and farm
of
who trust us to deliver excellence under their
labels
At Tiptree Patisserie shor tbread is not just another product; it’s an expression of our brand s dedication to quality, tradition, and the ar t of ar tisan baking If you would like to get in touch about supply or to discuss a white-label solution for your business, please get in touch:
As par t of the Wilkin & Sons family of business, famous for its Tiptree Jam, you can be assured of our focus on quality and ingredients Naturally, here at Tiptree Patisserie our handmade cakes are made with
Tel: 01376 509101
Email: tiptreepatisserie@tiptree .com
Web: www tiptreecakes com
Hospitality Technology
Introducing Task Manager: Revolutionising Food Safety and Operational Efficiency in Hospitality & Catering Industry
Vista Technology Support: Your Trusted Partner
They ’re Rewriting the Rules of Hospitality with Tech That Truly Understands Your Guests
Outdoor Spaces
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Catering Equipment Ltd are the authorised UK Distributor for
Elevate Alfresco Dining with Quality Wines from
Lanchester Wines
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• White Wine: A zesty m x of Airen, Macabeo, and Sauvignon Blanc
• Rosé Wine: A delightful Garnac ha Rosado With Lanchester Wines, alfresco dining can be both environmentally conscious and a celebration of great taste Our innovative packaging solutions ensure you can offer high-quality wines that are practical and sustainable , enhancing the outdoor dining experience for your customers See the adver t on the facing page for details
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Fridge Seals Direct
Fridge Seals Direct proud to be UK's no1 supplier of replacement fridge and freezer seals We fabricate for a wide variety of commercial fridge & freezers
The management team at Fridge Seals Direct have over 30 years of experience in the refrigeration industr y and have each spent many of those years installing gaskets and hardware for a range of styles brands and sizes of fridges
From restaurant kitchens to food warehouses - we have experience in dealing with fridge & freezers of all sizes and scales To learn more about fridge seals, be sure to explore our range of extensive guides on how to replace a refrigerator door seals Otherwise , find your specific guides in how to identify, measure , install or maintain your fridge or freezer door seal
The Importance of Venting Floor Mounted Waste Water Pumping Systems
When designing or installing a commercial kitchen venting the floor mounted waste water pumping system may not be the first thing that is taken into consideration However, understanding the impor tance of venting for the effective operation of the pump, as well dispersing odours from the tank, is a critical factor for reliability in these situations
As wastewater drains from a sink or appliance the air inside the tank must be released to allow the flow of water into it If the tank is not vented correctly wastewater will be noticeably slower to drain away from sinks and appliances Odours and gurgling noises from equipment and sinks will also occur In these situations the likelihood is that the pumping system is not properly vented
As the pump operates air needs to be drawn back into the tank so that a par tial vacuum is not created If this is allowed to happen the discharge flow of the pump will be reduced adversely affecting its efficiency
For these reasons all pump tanks need to be fitted with a suitable vent to allow them to breathe in and out Ideally this should be routed to atmosphere external to the building
In cases where the vent outlet can only be sited within the building, a filter must be used to minimise any potential odours escaping from the pump collect-
ing tank
Two filters are available from Aldermaston based waste water pumping system specialists Pump Technolog y Ltd the smaller CharcoVent and the larger MicroVent Both contain an activated carbon filter ideal for removing odours
The smaller CharcoVent, which is an easy to replace disposable car tridge , should be used on systems that are typically sink only Its vent pipe should be 1 1/4”
The larger MicroVent, which features a replaceable cartridge , should be used on systems that have multiple wastewater inlets, or with appliances
Our reputation in the industr y along with our commitment to providing a high-quality gasket without having to buy from the factor y allows us to have competitive pricing and fast turnaround time
Tr y us out, order your door gaskets from us and discover a better way to do business We are here to help you
www fridgesealsdirect co uk
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• Damaged fridge seals are unhygienic
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